Swimmer's Rash confirmed

Swimmer's Rash confirmed

JACKSONVILLE -- Two cases of swimmer's itch have been confirmed in people who recently swam in Lake Jacksonville.

JACKSONVILLE -- Two cases of swimmer's itch have been confirmed in people who recently swam in Lake Jacksonville. The rash, cercarial dermatitis, is caused by an allergic reaction to certain parasites in the water.

The parasite come from infected birds and snails. It can burrow into skin, causing the allergic reaction and rash.

Symptoms include tingling, burning and itching accompanied by small, reddish pimples or small blisters. It is not contagious between people. Remedies include using an anti-itch lotion, cool compresses, baking soda bath or paste and Epsom salt or oatmeal baths.

To avoid being infected, stay away from marshy areas where snails are found, avoid swimming in shallow water, towel dry and shower immediately after leaving the water and don't attract water fowl to areas where people swim.